What You'll Find at Whitestone Lake

Whitestone Lake is a small alpine reservoir in the North Cascades, roughly 20 miles northeast of Concrete, Washington. The lake holds kokanee salmon and cutthroat trout, making it a destination for anglers who want to fish at elevation without a long backcountry hike. The water sits around 2,200 feet, and the setting is dense forest with mountain views — quieter than the valley lakes but more accessible than true wilderness.

The lake is roughly 40 acres and relatively shallow, which keeps it productive for both species. Kokanee here run small to medium, typically 10 to 14 inches. Cutthroat are fewer but larger, and they respond to the same techniques. The season runs from late spring through fall, with summer being the most reliable window.

Key Takeaways

  • Whitestone Lake holds kokanee and cutthroat trout and sits at 2,200 feet in the North Cascades near Concrete.
  • Access is by a rough forest road that may require high-clearance or four-wheel drive depending on recent maintenance and weather.
  • Fishing is best from June through September, with kokanee responding to small spoons and cutthroat to flies or spinners.
  • Washington State fishing regulations apply; check current rules for species-specific limits and season dates before you go.
  • The lake has minimal developed facilities, so bring your own water, food, and gear — no store or services nearby.

How to Reach Whitestone Lake

Whitestone Lake Road branches off Highway 20 east of Concrete. The turnoff is marked but easy to miss; look for it roughly 20 miles northeast of town. The road itself is rough and narrow, climbing steadily through forest. In dry summer conditions, a standard sedan can make it, but after rain or in early season, high-clearance or four-wheel drive is safer. The drive from the highway takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on road condition.

There is a small parking area at the lake. No developed boat launch exists, but anglers can hand-launch small boats, rafts, or float tubes. Shore access is available but limited by brush and steep banks in places. The parking area has no facilities — no restrooms, no water, no garbage service. Plan to pack out everything you pack in.

Seasons and Weather Conditions

The lake is fishable from late May or early June through October, depending on snowmelt and weather. Early season (June and early July) can be hit-or-miss because the water is still cold and the road may be muddy or partially blocked by snow. Mid-summer (July through September) is the most reliable window — water temperature is stable, the road is passable, and both kokanee and cutthroat are active.

Fall fishing (September and October) can be excellent, especially for cutthroat, but weather turns quickly at elevation. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Temperatures drop fast after sunset, even in July. Bring layers and rain gear regardless of the forecast. The road can become impassable after heavy rain or early snow, so check conditions before committing to a trip in shoulder seasons.

What Species Are Here and How to Fish Them

Kokanee are the primary target. They school in open water and respond best to small spoons — silver, gold, or white in sizes 1/8 to 1/4 ounce. Cast from shore or troll slowly from a boat or float tube. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive. Kokanee here are not large, but they are numerous and willing. A light spinning rod with 4-pound test is ideal.

Cutthroat trout are present but less abundant. They hold near structure — fallen trees, rocky points, deeper water near the dam. Fly fishing with small streamers or nymphs works well. Spinning anglers can use small spinners or spoons. Cutthroat here are less aggressive than kokanee but larger, often 12 to 16 inches. They bite best in early morning and again in the evening.

Both species are light-biters at times, especially in mid-day heat. Use light tackle and keep your presentation subtle. The water is clear, so fish can see your line — fluorocarbon tippet or leader helps on fly gear.

Regulations and Licensing

Washington State fishing regulations apply at Whitestone Lake. You must have a valid Washington fishing license. Regulations for kokanee and cutthroat change year to year and can vary by water body, so check the current rules through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website or their mobile app before you fish.

Typically, kokanee have a daily limit and a possession limit; cutthroat limits differ. Some waters have catch-and-release-only rules for cutthroat, while others allow harvest. The WDFW website lists Whitestone Lake by name and shows the current rules for that specific water. Print or screenshot the rules and bring them with you — cell service is unreliable at elevation.

What to Bring and What to Expect

This is a backcountry lake with no services. Bring your own drinking water — at least two liters per person. Bring food, snacks, and a headlamp or flashlight. The parking area has no shade, so sun protection matters. Insect repellent is useful in early summer when mosquitoes are active. A small first-aid kit is wise given the distance from help.

If you plan to fish from a boat or float tube, bring your own. The lake is small enough that a float tube or small raft is practical and gives you access to deeper water where cutthroat hold. A hand pump or battery pump helps launch. If you fish from shore, wear polarized sunglasses to spot fish in the clear water.

Cell service is spotty or absent. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. The nearest town with services is Concrete, roughly 30 minutes away by car. The nearest hospital is in Sedro-Woolley, about 45 minutes away.

When to Fish and What to Expect Weather-Wise

July and August are the most reliable months. Water temperature is warm enough for active feeding, the road is passable, and the weather is most stable. Expect afternoon temperatures in the 70s to low 80s at the lake, but it cools quickly after sunset. Bring a jacket even in summer.

June and September can be excellent but less predictable. June water is still cold, and kokanee may be sluggish. September weather turns fast — clear mornings can become overcast and rainy by afternoon. October is possible but risky; snow can arrive early at elevation, and the road may become impassable.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. If you see lightning, leave the water immediately. The lake sits in an open basin with few trees tall enough to provide shelter, so lightning risk is real. Plan your day to be off the water by mid-afternoon if storms are forecast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Whitestone Lake?

No. Shore fishing is possible, though limited by brush and steep banks. A float tube or small boat gives you access to deeper water and more productive areas, especially for cutthroat. Many anglers bring a float tube because it is easy to transport and launch by hand.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon (two hours before sunset) are most productive for both species. Kokanee can bite throughout the day, but cutthroat are more active at the edges of daylight. Mid-day fishing is slower but possible on overcast days.

Is the road passable in winter?

Not reliably. Snow and ice close Whitestone Lake Road from November through April most years. The road is not plowed. Check with the Skagit County Road Department or the Concrete Ranger District before attempting access in fall or spring.

Can I camp at Whitestone Lake?

There is no developed campground. Dispersed camping may be possible on nearby National Forest land, but check with the Concrete Ranger District for current rules and restrictions. The parking area itself is day-use only.

What size fish should I expect?

Kokanee typically run 10 to 14 inches. Cutthroat are fewer but larger, often 12 to 16 inches. Both are modest by regional standards, but the fishing is consistent and the setting is worth the drive.